Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 6, 2026
08:20
A Hyperandrogenic Mouse Model to Study Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Published on: October 2, 2018
Sex Steroid Hormones and Olfactory Dysfunction in US Adults
Chubo Xie1,2, Pinning Feng3, Zhiqing He1,2
1Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital Ganzhou Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangdong Cardiovascular Institute, Guangzhou, China.
American Journal of Rhinology & Allergy
|July 18, 2026
Summary
Higher free testosterone levels are linked to a lower prevalence of olfactory dysfunction in men. This study found no clear hormone-olfaction links in women, suggesting testosterone may explain sex differences in smell.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Neuroscience
- Gerontology
Background:
- Olfactory dysfunction is common and more prevalent in men, with sex steroid hormones implicated.
- Population-based evidence linking hormones to olfactory dysfunction remains limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate associations between serum free testosterone and estradiol and olfactory dysfunction in US adults.
- To explore potential sex and age differences in these associations.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of 2750 US adults (≥40 years) from the 2013-2014 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey.
- Olfactory function assessed via the 8-item Pocket Smell Test; dysfunction defined as a score ≤5.
- Multivariable logistic and linear regression models adjusted for confounders.
Main Results:
- The prevalence of olfactory dysfunction was 16.49% in men and 10.58% in women.
- In men, higher free testosterone was associated with lower odds of olfactory dysfunction (aOR=0.47; 95% CI, 0.26-0.83), particularly in those >50 years.
- No significant associations were found for free testosterone or estradiol in women.
Conclusions:
- Elevated free testosterone is associated with reduced olfactory dysfunction in men.
- No clear associations between sex hormones and olfaction were detected in women.
- Circulating testosterone may play a role in sex-based differences in olfactory performance.
Related Concept Videos
01:27Major Hormones and Their Functions
Hormones, the biochemical messengers produced by endocrine glands, are pivotal in regulating bodily functions and maintaining homeostasis. Each hormone's balance is crucial; imbalances can lead to significant physiological disruptions. Major hormones include oxytocin, cortisol, epinephrine, estrogen, testosterone, thyroxine, growth hormone, insulin, and glucagon.
Oxytocin, produced in the hypothalamus and released by the pituitary gland, plays a role in social bonding, childbirth, and lactation.
Oxytocin, produced in the hypothalamus and released by the pituitary gland, plays a role in social bonding, childbirth, and lactation.
01:28Menopause
Menopause, a natural biological process marking the end of a woman's fertility, typically occurs between the fifth and sixth decade of life. This phase is characterized by the exhaustion of the ovarian follicle pool, leading to less responsive ovaries despite the high levels of Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Luteinizing Hormone (LH). The consequential decrease in estrogen production results in symptoms like hot flashes, heavy sweating, headaches, hair loss, muscle pains, vaginal...
01:20Disorders of the Male Reproductive System
Men's health issues are increasingly recognized as significant, with several conditions posing common threats. Among these, testicular cancer is especially prevalent in younger men, particularly those aged 20 to 35 years. The disease often manifests as a painless mass in the testicles, sometimes accompanied by a sensation of heaviness or a dull ache.
Prostate disorders are another major concern. These conditions can impair urinary flow due to the prostate's location around the urethra. Symptoms...
Prostate disorders are another major concern. These conditions can impair urinary flow due to the prostate's location around the urethra. Symptoms...
01:31Hormones of the Adrenal Glands
Adrenal hormones play a pivotal role in maintaining the body's electrolyte balance and orchestrating responses to stress, showcasing the intricate functions of the adrenal cortex and medulla.
The adrenal cortex, a powerhouse of hormone synthesis, generates over two dozen corticosteroid hormones. The zona glomerulosa produces mineralocorticoids, exemplified by aldosterone, influencing the electrolyte composition of body fluids. The synthesis of glucocorticoids such as cortisol and corticosterone...
The adrenal cortex, a powerhouse of hormone synthesis, generates over two dozen corticosteroid hormones. The zona glomerulosa produces mineralocorticoids, exemplified by aldosterone, influencing the electrolyte composition of body fluids. The synthesis of glucocorticoids such as cortisol and corticosterone...
01:27Signs of Puberty
Puberty is a critical phase, typically beginning between the ages of 8 and 13 in girls and 9 and 14 in boys, though timing can vary based on genetics, environmental factors, and overall health. This period is characterized by the development of secondary sexual characteristics and the attainment of reproductive potential. Endocrine changes underpin puberty, with hormonal surges of Luteinizing Hormone (LH) and Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) instigated by Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH)...
01:24Gonadal and Placental Hormones
The gonads, namely the testes in males and the ovaries in females, are pivotal in producing gonadal hormones that orchestrate the intricate processes of sexual development and reproduction.
In males, testosterone is the primary gonadal androgen. It plays a central role in the maturation of male reproductive organs — the penis and testes. Additionally, testosterone is instrumental in the development of secondary sexual characteristics — a deep voice as well as facial and pubic hair growth — and...
In males, testosterone is the primary gonadal androgen. It plays a central role in the maturation of male reproductive organs — the penis and testes. Additionally, testosterone is instrumental in the development of secondary sexual characteristics — a deep voice as well as facial and pubic hair growth — and...